Proclamation
WHEREAS, Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) was founded in 1996 by ten families united by the belief that every child deserves love, hope, respect, and support, and has since grown into one of the most impactful nonprofits in the Bay Area, now serving more than 1,500 families, including many in Cupertino and supporting over 500 individuals daily with the help of 160 staff and countless volunteers; and
WHEREAS, FCSN provides over 40 programs and services that emphasize family involvement, inclusion, and community integration, offering support in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin to meet the needs of diverse families; and WHEREAS, FCSN has created lasting opportunities through milestones such as the opening of its Dream Center in Fremont in 2006, expansion to San Jose in 2017, and the launch of Friends Coffee & Tea in 2018 to provide job training and employment for adults with special needs; and
WHEREAS, FCSN nurtures both individuals with special needs and future leaders by engaging youth volunteers, including those in the Fremont Union High School District to build empathy and service, while celebrating talents through the Special Needs Talent Showcase for performing arts and the annual art exhibitions, including “Through Our Eyes” and “Expressions,” which share creativity and joy with the broader community; and
WHEREAS, FCSN’s excellence has been recognized across California, including being named Nonprofit of the Year in 2025 by the California Association of Nonprofits, along with commendations from federal, state, county, and city leaders; and WHEREAS, Today, FCSN continues its vision of building a supportive and inclusive community by connecting individuals with special needs to benefits, services, and resources—positively impacting more than 5,000 families. Recognizing the limitations of its own capacity, FCSN also empowers special needs communities around the world through in-person presentations and webinars that help others create their own systems of support; and
WHEREAS, FCSN’s comprehensive programs include family support and empowerment to nurture the well-being of entire families; enrichment and social recreation programs that help children and adults discover and develop their talents to pursue their dreams; job training and supported employment opportunities that empower participants to become contributing members of society; and independent and supported living services that enable individuals with special needs to live with dignity and thrive in their communities; and WHEREAS, For nearly three decades, FCSN has exemplified the power of families working together to create a safe, inclusive environment where children and adults with special needs can learn, thrive, and share their gifts.
THEREFORE, I, Mayor Liang Chao, and the Cupertino City Council do hereby recognize and celebrate
Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN)
for its extraordinary service, compassion, and leadership in building a stronger, more inclusive community for Cupertino families and families across the Bay Area.
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The Honorable Liang Chao
Mayor, City of Cupertino